Hornets speaking with NBA to problem Lakers' failed bodily on Mark Williams

How Doncic’s and James’ opinions align on Hayes would be the first check of their partnership that might final months or go on for years, relying on how the remainder of this season pans out. What is obvious is that Doncic may have a say. And it wasn’t misplaced on James’ camp, sources mentioned, that Pelinka prioritized Doncic’s involvement upon his arrival and instantly engaged within the Williams commerce that he’d requested for, when James had for years needed the group to commerce its picks to enhance its roster. -via ESPN / February 10, 2025

Former NBA level guard Jeff Teague knew one thing didn’t scent proper from the beginning. Earlier than the Lakers rescinded the commerce, Teague mentioned on his “Membership 520” podcast that the Hornets will need to have recognized one thing about Williams’ medical scenario that they weren’t disclosing. In any other case, Teague felt the commerce made no sense for Charlotte. “They obtained finessed, for certain. Mark Williams is a younger huge, however he’s at all times damage,” Teague mentioned. “In order that they like, ‘F–, we will get off this.’ They know one thing we don’t know, what I imply? You don’t simply quit an enormous heart, a younger heart averaging 15 (factors) and rattling close to 10 (rebounds). It’s one thing they know that we don’t. That hip f–ed up, for actual, what I imply? Like, he can get by it, however it ain’t gonna final lengthy.” -via Larry Brown Sports activities / February 10, 2025

The group’s capacity to pivot from Williams might be essential for this group’s possibilities, and limiting the fallout will enable L.A. to revive the momentum it has been constructing within the quick time period. As for the long run, with out Williams however with Knecht and the 2031 first-round choose? “That was lots [to give up],” a group supply mentioned. “We sort of dodged a bullet.” -via ESPN / February 10, 2025